Everyone carries an “almond” inside their body. It’s actually the amygdala, a part of the brain named for its almond-like shape and size. The amygdala processes and responds to emotions, and it becomes especially active when we feel negative emotions. Once it is activated, stress hormones are immediately released. This is why keeping the amygdala calm is essential for both mental and physical health.
This month, take care to keep your own—and your family’s—“almonds” relaxed and steady. When our emotions are stable, health and happiness naturally follow.
- Tip
- How to Keep Your Amygdala Calm and Stable
- Eat a balanced diet (especially omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and B vitamins).
- Get sufficient sleep.
- Take walks in nature.
- Engage your brain positively through reading or writing.
- Nurture emotional connection and communication with your family.
- When anger rises, pause and take slow, deep breaths.
- Make time for prayer or self-reflection.
- End your day by writing in a gratitude journal.